17 Phrases Borrowed from Other Languages
Languages are rarely contained within national borders, and words and phrases spread with traders, writers, travelers, and the media, slowly seeping into everyday language in unexpected places. English has a long history of embracing foreign influences, borrowing phrases that are too vivid, too colorful, and too specific to pass over.
Eventually, some of these borrowed phrases are so well-integrated into everyday language that the foreign connections are no longer noticed, relegated to the background. However, there is still a faint echo of the culture and meaning from where the word came.
Carpe Diem
The phrase ‘carpe diem’ is derived from Latin literature and is generally interpreted as ‘seize the day.’ It was first used in Latin literature by a poet from Rome named Horace.
The phrase is commonly used in various contexts today. It is believed that the phrase is popular because of its simplicity.
Déjà Vu
The French phrase ‘déjà vu’ literally means ‘already seen.’ It describes the strange sensation of experiencing something that feels oddly familiar, as though the moment has happened before.
Even so, the phrase itself slipped easily into English because no existing term captured the feeling quite as neatly. It is now used casually in everyday speech, often describing a moment that feels eerily repetitive or familiar.
C’est La Vie
‘C’est la vie’ translates from French as ‘that’s life.’ The phrase expresses acceptance when events do not go as planned.
English speakers adopted the phrase partly because of its elegant simplicity. It carries a tone of gentle resignation without sounding overly dramatic.
Bon Voyage
Another French expression that crossed into English is ‘bon voyage,’ meaning ‘have a good journey.’ Traditionally spoken to travelers before departure, the phrase conveys a warm wish for a safe and pleasant trip.
Airports, travel agencies, and farewell cards often use the expression, which has a slightly romantic tone. Even so, its meaning remains straightforward.
Schadenfreude
‘Schadenfreude’ comes from German and describes the quiet satisfaction someone may feel when another person experiences misfortune. The word combines ‘Schaden,’ meaning damage, with ‘Freude,’ meaning joy.
English adopted the term because no single word captured the concept so precisely. The phrase often appears in discussions of human psychology, humor, and social dynamics.
Hasta La Vista
The Spanish phrase ‘hasta la vista’ translates roughly as ‘see you later.’ It serves as a friendly farewell that implies a future meeting rather than a permanent goodbye.
In English-speaking culture, the phrase gained extra visibility through film and popular media. Even so, its everyday meaning remains unchanged.
Faux Pas
‘Faux pas’ is a French expression that literally means ‘false step.’ In social terms, it refers to an awkward mistake or breach of etiquette.
English speakers use the phrase when describing small but noticeable social missteps, such as saying the wrong thing in the wrong setting. Its slightly formal tone makes it sound more playful than critical.
Alter Ego
The Latin phrase ‘alter ego’ translates to ‘other self.’ Originally used in philosophical writing, the expression referred to a second identity or personality connected to a person.
In modern English, the phrase appears in discussions of creativity, storytelling, and public personas. Artists, performers, and fictional characters often adopt alternate identities that reflect different sides of their personalities.
Persona Non Grata
‘Persona non grata’ also comes from Latin and means ‘an unwelcome person.’ Historically, the phrase appeared in diplomatic language when describing someone who was no longer welcome in a country.
Today the phrase often appears in a more casual context. It can describe someone who is unwelcome in a group, community, or event.
Hakuna Matata
The phrase ‘hakuna matata’ originates from Swahili and translates loosely as ‘no worries.’ In many East African communities, the expression serves as a reassuring way of saying that everything is fine.
The phrase gained international recognition through entertainment and music, but its meaning remains rooted in everyday speech. Its easy rhythm and optimistic tone helped it travel easily across languages.
Dolce Vita
‘Dolce vita’ comes from Italian and means ‘sweet life.’ The phrase describes a lifestyle filled with pleasure, beauty, and enjoyment.
English speakers often use the expression when referring to relaxed living, travel, or luxurious experiences. The phrase carries a hint of Italian cultural flair, evoking images of warm evenings, good food, and lively conversation.
Bonsai
The Japanese word ‘bonsai’ refers to the art of growing miniature trees carefully shaped over time. While the term originally described a horticultural practice, it gradually entered English as both a hobby and an aesthetic concept.
The word itself reflects patience and craftsmanship. Each tree is shaped slowly, sometimes over decades.
Karma
‘Karma’ originated in Sanskrit and plays an important role in several spiritual traditions. The concept describes the idea that actions influence future outcomes, creating a chain of cause and effect.
In modern English, the word is often used more casually. People may refer to karma when discussing fairness, luck, or consequences.
Café
The word ‘café’ entered English from French, referring to a small restaurant or coffeehouse. These spaces historically served as gathering places where people met for conversation, writing, or quiet reflection.
Today the word appears in cities around the world. Despite its widespread use, the term still carries a touch of European charm.
Coup De Grâce
The French phrase ‘coup de grâce’ literally means ‘blow of mercy.’ Historically it described a final action that ended suffering during battle.
In modern English, the phrase often appears metaphorically. It describes the final event that decisively ends a situation or argument.
Guru
‘Guru’ originates from Sanskrit and traditionally refers to a spiritual teacher or guide. The word traveled through religious and philosophical writing before entering broader English usage.
Today the term often describes an expert in a particular field. Technology specialists, business leaders, and creative thinkers are frequently described as gurus when they demonstrate deep knowledge.
Ad Hoc
The Latin words ‘ad hoc,’ meaning ‘for this purpose,’ have been used for centuries in legal and academic circles. The term was originally used to describe something that was specifically made for that purpose.
The term ‘ad hoc’ is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to groups or ideas that have been specifically formed or thought of for the solution of a specific problem. The term has stuck over the years because it is so practical to have an easy word for this concept.
Words That Travel With Culture
The use of borrowed phrases shows how language is a product of humanity’s migration and interaction. Trade routes, literature, and media all contribute to the constant flow of words from one society to another.
These phrases, even in everyday conversation, subtly remind people that language is in a constant state of flux. Phrases move and adapt as people experience new ideas and things.
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